Washington wildlife managers spent 135-thousand dollars to fatally shoot seven of 11 wolves that had attacked cattle in the northeastern part of the state.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife released a 200-page report on last year’s effort to remove the Profanity Peak wolf pack, which typically roams parts of northern Ferry County. The agency reported helicopter and staff time for the aerial gunning made up most of the spending, while 10-thousand dollars was paid to an area trapper. Officials say the goal of the action was to stop predations on livestock and that the remaining wolves would be killing if attacks continue.
The agency followed a protocol of hazing efforts before targeting the pack for extermination in August. Wolf advocate groups say the state could have done more to prevent conflicts that led to the wolves being killed. (AP)
